Is now a smart time to buy property? Budget shock, rents and the flight to quality

In this Australian Property Podcast episode, Pete Wargent and Chris Bates unpack one of the biggest questions in property right now: is this actually a good time to buy, or are buyers still stepping into a falling market too early? They explore why so many sellers, buyers and agents seem frozen at once, why quality assets are behaving differently from the headline market data, and how fear around interest rates, inflation and the Federal Budget is changing behaviour across Sydney, Melbourne and beyond. Pete and Chris also explain why weak confidence today could become a major supply problem tomorrow, especially if developers, builders and investors keep stepping back. The conversation goes beyond prices. They discuss tightening rental markets, why first-home buyers may still need to act even in a softer market, and why the best opportunities often appear when sentiment feels worst. Their core message is clear: focus on quality, think long term, and do not confuse scary headlines with the value of a genuinely strong asset. They also answer listener questions on the six-year CGT rule, how to think about an investment property versus a future Melbourne home, and what buyers should watch if they are trying to move while the market still looks foggy. If you want a practical read on falling prices, rental pressure, buyer psychology and the post-Budget property reset, this episode is worth your time. Episode resources – Ask a question (select the Property podcast) Show partner resources – Join Pearler using the code "RASKSWITCH" and get $32 of Pearler Credit – Whatever comes next for your business, power it with Stripe EOFY deals to know about - ending June/July 2026 – 1 free trade per month, for 12 months, for new Pearler customers Rask resources – Pete's Buyers Agency – Alcove mortgage broking – Amy Lunardi Buyers Agency (Melbourne) – All services – Financial Planning – Invest with us – Access Show Notes – Ask a question – We love feedback! Follow us on social media – Instagram: @rask.invest – TikTok: @rask.invest DISCLAIMER: This podcast contains general financial information only. That means the information does not take into account your objectives, financial situation, or needs. Because of that, you should consider if the information is appropriate to you and your needs, before acting on it. If you’re confused about what that means or what your needs are, you should always consult a licensed and trusted financial planner. Unfortunately, we cannot guarantee the accuracy of the information in this podcast, including any financial, taxation, and/or legal information. Remember, past performance is not a reliable indicator of future performance. The Rask Group is NOT a qualified tax accountant, financial (tax) adviser, or financial adviser. Access The Rask Group's Financial Services Guide (FSG): https://www.rask.com.au/fsg Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices